On the whole, embracing a more “G” lifestyle has been a rewarding experience. Switching to organic cotton jeans? A no brainer. Shunning animal products in my diet? Enjoyable – well, for 30 days at least (see nutrition). Buying a cruelty-free handbag? Totally depressing.

But there’s good news, animal lovers. I’ve discovered a drool worthy alternative. Matt & Nat is the brainchild of Montreal-based designer Inder Bedi, who founded the company back in 1997 after exploring the intersection between high fashion and animal rights consideration at University. Matt & Nat bags are made using only synthetic materials. Says Bedi: “Our bags are popular because they’re stylish, and the fact that we use PVC instead of leather is just the cherry on top”.

In any case, the proof is in the plant-based pudding. His high-end handbags have catapulted this Canadian company onto the international fashion scene.

The best thing about Matt & Nat? If you stumbled across one of their bags in the pages of glossy magazines, you wouldn’t even know it was synthetic. You’d probably just fall in love with the bag. Which is what it’s all about.